How to Make Washing Machine Cleaner: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Learn practical, safe methods to make your washing machine cleaner. This educational guide covers DIY and commercial options, cycle routines, and maintenance tips to prevent odors, mold, and residue for a fresher, more efficient washer.
By following this guide, you will safely remove buildup, odors, and mold from your washing machine and restore optimal performance. You’ll learn how to choose between DIY cleaners and commercial options, run effective cleaning cycles, wipe seals, and implement a simple maintenance routine to keep your washer cleaner between deep cleans.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent soap scum, mineral buildup, and mold from taking hold inside your washing machine. When residues accumulate, they can cause musty odors, decreased cleaning performance, and longer cycle times. According to Best Washing Machine, consistent cleaning reduces wear on components and helps maintain energy efficiency. By keeping the drum, seals, and detergent drawer free of grime, you protect the appliance from damage and extend its lifespan. A cleaner washer also helps detergents work more effectively, so you get fresher laundry with less effort. This article explains practical, safe methods to make washing machine cleaner using common household supplies or purpose-built cleaners. You’ll gain a clear plan that fits different washer types and loads, while avoiding common mistakes that can damage seals or circuits.
Understanding Where Dirt Builds Up
Dirt and grime in a washing machine accumulate in several places: the drum, gasket, detergent drawer, and hoses. Soap residue from detergents interacts with minerals in water to form stubborn scum that clings to the drum walls and seals. Microbial growth, including mold and mildew, can thrive in damp, dark corners like the door boot and detergent compartments. Front-load washers are especially susceptible due to their airtight design and extended spin cycles, but top-load machines aren’t immune. Regularly addressing these hotspots reduces odors and helps maintain performance over time. Best Washing Machine analysis shows that routine cleaning is one of the most impactful practices homeowners can adopt for appliance longevity.
Tools, Cleaners, and Safety Basics
Before you begin, gather your cleaning supplies and review safety basics. The goal is to choose safe, effective cleaners and protect your skin and eyes during handling. Have microfiber cloths ready for wiping, a soft brush or old toothbrush for crevices, and a spray bottle for applying solutions. For cleaners, you can use mild vinegar solutions, baking soda, or a purpose-made washer cleaner. Always check your manufacturer’s guidance for your model, especially if you own a high-efficiency or stainless steel drum. Wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area helps keep the process comfortable and safe, and you should never mix cleaners that release strong fumes.
Cleaning Methods: Vinegar, Baking Soda, and Commercial Cleaners
Vinegar and baking soda are popular DIY options, each playing a different role. A vinegar-based cycle helps dissolve mineral deposits and soap scum, while baking soda acts as a deodorizer and gentle abrasive to tackle residue in seals and drawers. If you prefer ready-made products, select a washer cleaner designed for your machine type and follow the product instructions. The key is to run an initial hot wash to loosen grime, then a second cycle with baking soda or cleaner to flush out residue. Always avoid mixing vinegar with chlorine bleach, as this creates dangerous fumes. Consistent use of the right cleaner reduces the risk of recurring smells and grime.
Front-Load vs Top-Load: Cleaning Nuances
Front-load washers tend to trap more moisture, which increases mold risk around the door gasket. In these models, keep the door slightly ajar after cycles to promote air circulation and drying. Top-load washers usually have looser seals and can be cleaned effectively with hot cycles and direct application of cleaners to the drum. If your model includes a removable detergent drawer, remove it and clean it separately to remove trapped soap and residue. Paying attention to these nuances helps tailor your cleaning approach for your specific machine.
Detailing: Gasket, Detergent Drawer, and Drain
The door gasket is a common breeding ground for mold. Gently lift the edge and wipe the rubber with a vinegar solution, rinsing thoroughly. Detergent drawers accumulate residue from detergents and fabric softeners; disassemble if possible and scrub with an old toothbrush and warm water, paying attention to crevices. If your washer has a drain pump filter, check and clean it following the manufacturer’s instructions. Clear any lint or debris that could impede drainage. After cleaning these parts, run a test cycle to ensure no residue remains.
Maintenance Habits to Prevent Odors
Create a simple routine to prevent future buildup. Run a brief hot-cycle cleaning once a month or after heavy use, and immediately wipe down the door seal and detergent drawer after each load. Leave the door or lid open between uses to allow air-drying, and use the correct detergent amount to minimize soap buildup. By adopting these habits, you maintain a cleaner drum and minimize odors between deep cleans. Best Washing Machine’s guidance emphasizes consistency and simple habits as the backbone of appliance cleanliness.
Troubleshooting Odor, Mold, and Residue After Cleaning
If you still notice odors or visible mold after a cleaning cycle, recheck the gasket for hidden mold pockets and re-clean the drawer compartments. Odors may indicate moisture remains in seals, hoses, or the drum—re-run a cleaning cycle, ensuring proper ventilation and drying between steps. If residue persists, consider checking the drain pump filter and hoses for clogs, or consult your washer’s manual for model-specific guidance. Addressing these issues promptly prevents long-term damage and maintains performance.
When to Call a Pro or Consider Replacement
Some issues require professional support, such as persistent mold despite regular cleaning or electrical concerns related to the control panel. If you repeatedly experience odors after thorough cleaning, it could indicate deeper plumbing or sanitation problems that warrant expert assessment. In cases where the washer is older or headlined by frequent repairs, evaluating cost versus replacement can be prudent. The Best Washing Machine team recommends weighing safety, reliability, and long-term operating costs when deciding whether to repair or replace.
Tools & Materials
- White distilled vinegar(For hot cleaning cycles and wiping surfaces)
- Baking soda(Deodorizes and helps flush residue)
- Citric acid (optional)(Alternative mineral-removal option)
- Commercial washer cleaner (optional)(Follow product directions if chosen)
- Microfiber cloths(For surfaces, seals, and drawers)
- Old toothbrush or soft brush(Access tight crevices around gasket and drawers)
- Gloves(Protect skin while handling cleaners)
- Spray bottle(Apply solutions to hard-to-reach areas)
- Towels or rags(Dry components and wipe excess moisture)
Steps
Estimated time: about thirty to forty minutes
- 1
Unplug and prep the washer
Power down the machine and gather your cleaning supplies. Inspect accessible components for any obvious issues before starting. This prevents accidents during cleaning and keeps you organized.
Tip: Safety first: unplug and keep water away from electrical outlets. - 2
Run a hot cycle with cleaner
Place a generous amount of vinegar or a recommended cleaner directly into the drum and start a hot wash. This loosens mineral buildup and soap scum, prepping the interior for deeper cleaning.
Tip: Ensure the load is empty and doors are open to allow steam to escape. - 3
Wipe and clean the detergent drawer
Remove the drawer if possible and scrub it with warm water and a brush. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue that can contribute to odors.
Tip: Dry the drawer before reinserting to prevent moisture buildup. - 4
Clean the door gasket thoroughly
Carefully lift the edge of the gasket and wipe inside with a vinegar solution. Dry completely to discourage mold growth and repeat for any folds where grime hides.
Tip: Use a flashlight to inspect dark folds for hidden mold. - 5
Run a second cycle with baking soda
Add baking soda to the drum and run another cycle on a hot setting. This step deodorizes and further loosens residue that the first cycle may have missed.
Tip: Rinse thoroughly to ensure no powder remains in the drum. - 6
Flush and inspect the drain area
If accessible, check and clean the drain pump filter and hoses. Remove any lint or debris that could impede drainage on future cycles.
Tip: Always consult the user manual before removing any components. - 7
Dry and air out the machine
Wipe down all surfaces and leave the door or lid ajar to dry. Proper airflow reduces moisture and mold risk between cleans.
Tip: Keep the area around the machine well-ventilated during this step. - 8
Establish a maintenance routine
Create a simple monthly cleaning plan, and a quick wipe-down after each load. Consistency is the key to long-term cleanliness and odor control.
Tip: Attach a reminder in your calendar to stay on track.
FAQ
How often should I clean my washing machine?
Aim for a deep clean every month or after heavy use. Front-load models, in particular, benefit from more frequent attention due to moisture around the door gasket.
Clean your washer monthly or after heavy use, especially for front-load models where moisture can cause mold around the door.
Can I use vinegar in all washing machines?
Vinegar is generally safe for many machines, but always check the user manual. Do not mix vinegar with chlorine bleach, and avoid using it in certain specialty cycles recommended by the manufacturer.
Vinegar works for many machines, but always check your manual and never mix it with chlorine bleach.
Is baking soda safe for the drum?
Yes, baking soda helps deodorize and loosen residue when used in moderation. Avoid excessive use that could leave a powdery film on sensitive drum surfaces.
Yes, baking soda is safe in moderation and helps deodorize the drum.
Should I use commercial washer cleaners?
Commercial cleaners are convenient and effective when used as directed. They can reduce residue and odor, but always follow the product’s instructions and consider replacing them with DIY options if you prefer to avoid additives.
Commercial cleaners work well when used as directed; follow the label and consider DIY options if you like.
What if I see mildew around the door gasket?
Re-clean the gasket with a vinegar solution, ensuring you reach into folds. Leave the door slightly ajar after cycles to keep air flowing and moisture from building up.
Wipe the gasket with vinegar and leave the door open after cleaning to dry out.
Why does my washer still smell after cleaning?
Persistent odor suggests moisture pockets or residue in hoses or the drain area. Repeat the cleaning cycle and inspect seals and hoses for hidden buildup.
If odors persist, recheck seals and hoses and consider another cleaning cycle.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Start with unplugging the machine and gathering supplies.
- Hot cleaning cycles plus safe cleaners remove buildup effectively.
- Detailing the gasket and detergent drawer prevents odors.
- Establish a simple maintenance routine to keep it cleaner between deep cleans.
